Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This Indian Black Eyed Peas recipe is packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and comes together quickly. It's the perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a vibrant and satisfying meal that's both good for you and incredibly tasty. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or healthy meal options. It's also a fantastic introduction to the world of Indian food recipes for beginners.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup black eyed peas, rinsed and picked over
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup vegetable broth (or water)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges for serving (optional)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a medium pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Bloom Spices
Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), and garam masala to the pot. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This process, called blooming, releases the full flavor of the spices.
Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the rinsed black eyed peas, diced tomatoes (undrained), and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the black eyed peas are tender.
Step 4: Season and Garnish
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped cilantro just before serving.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the Indian Black Eyed Peas hot over cooked rice. A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a delightful touch of acidity.
Tips for the Best Indian Black Eyed Peas:
- Soaking the peas: For even faster cooking, soak the black eyed peas in water for at least 4 hours or overnight before cooking. This significantly reduces cooking time.
- Spice level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preference. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it entirely or use a smaller amount.
- Vegetable broth: For a richer flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water. Chicken broth can also be used for a different flavor profile.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables like chopped carrots, potatoes, or spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Coconut milk: Stir in a can of coconut milk during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a creamier, richer dish.
- Lemon juice: Instead of lime, use lemon juice for a zesty twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fiber: Approximately 10-15g
This simple yet flavorful Indian Black Eyed Peas recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea that's both delicious and nutritious, perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend lunch. Enjoy!